LIBRARY ORIENTATION: A PROSPECT TO EFFECTIVE LIBRARY SERVICE DELIVERY AND USE FOR UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS

Abstract

This study examines the importance of library orientation to undergraduates in tertiary institutions of learning. Majority of the students gaining admission into higher institutions lack the basic knowledge of library use and its collections. The study specifically examines the basic roles of library as an information provider. The descriptive survey research design was adopted for this study. The population of the study consisted of 310 students selected randomly in four faculties in the university. These faculties are science, agriculture, languages and education. Questionnaire was used as the instrument for data collection. Out of 310 copies of questionnaire distributed, 250 were filled, returned and used for the study representing 80.6%, which is good for the study. Simple percentages were used for the study. The library has been endless resources of information for its users. In meeting up with its clients’ needs include and to remain relevant to its users, libraries encounters some challenges. In order to engage researchers fully, the library must make available its resources to its clients by engaging them in researches, preserving library materials on digital scale, key into library roles and objectives Libraries must make services available relevant and adequate reading materials for the readers. Library plays a major role in helping students in the course of their studies in the school by providing a conducive environment, relevant books and other materials for the students. Students needed to be guided most especially when they visit library for use. The paper also highlights the objectives, functions and the benefits/importance of library orientation. It recommends regular library orientation, provision of conducive learning environment and adequate and relevant books, encouraging students to attend all library orientation programmes among others.